McDonald's Flavor Battle Unveils Three Finalists in National DJ Competition

OAK BROOK, Ill., Dec. 30, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- McDonald's Flavor Battle, a national disc jockey (DJ) competition featuring some of America's hottest up-and-coming mix-masters, revealed today DJ R-Tistic of Los Angeles; Niena Drake of Chicago; and DJ Erika B of Newport News, Va.; beat nine other DJs from across the nation and advanced to the final round of the 13-week battle. The top three will scratch, mix and battle on the 1s and 2s at a taped finale event in New York City on January, 15, 2014, before a panel of celebrity judges. What's at stake: a $10,000 grand prize and bragging rights as the 2014 Flavor Battle Champion.

"I know how difficult it can be to break into this industry, so it's encouraging to see McDonald's provide a national platform for emerging talent to showcase their skills," said DJ Clue. "Although there can only be three finalists, there was a great mix of talent in this year's competition and everyone deserves recognition for what they bring to the tables. I know the final battle is going to be hot."

DJ R-Tistic, Niena Drake and DJ Erika B garnered the most votes in their respective regions in the intense online competition, in which thousands of music and burger lovers listened to a custom mix from each DJ on FlavorBattle.com and voted daily for their favorite flavor master. The remaining nine DJs who did not advance to the finale received a second shot at recognition via the Sprite® Spin-Off round.DJ Clean of Washington, D.C., climbed his way to the top of the Sprite Spin-Off and will receive $1,000 cash prize and spin during the finale taping, representing Big Mac.

"Music is an essential component of culture and communities," said Rob Jackson, McDonald's U.S. marketing director. "As a brand, McDonald's is proud to continue supporting a program that brings together some of the most creative, emerging DJs across the country to showcase their sharp talent and connect with audiences through this unmatched art form."

Music and burger lovers everywhere can watch the 2014 McDonald's Flavor Battle broadcast on FlavorBattle.com on Thursday, February 13 to find out who will be crowned this year's winner.

Conducted with men's style and lifestyle network Complex Media, Flavor Battle launched in 2009 as an extension of McDonald's 365Blackinitiative. McDonald's 365Black platform was created to celebrate the pride, heritage and achievements of African-Americans year round.